Actor, adventurer and motorbike enthusiast Charley Boorman was recently in South Africa filming his latest TV show, Charley Boorman's South African Adventure. The first episode aired on Wednesday night in the United Kingdom and generated a lot of buzz online.

The show sees Boorman travelling around the country and experiencing the diverse cultural attractions and activities that South Africa has to offer. In this week's episode, he spent time in Cape Town, abseiling from Table Mountain, visiting Robben Island (where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned), and cage diving with great white sharks. He also attempted to ride the waves with the help of a surf instructor, and experienced community spirit in the township of Masiphumelele.

He ended his adventure with a mass motorbike ride through Cape Town's streets – and was joined by a 300-strong convoy of bike enthusiasts.

"Cape Town is incredible," Boorman says in an interview with TNT magazine. "There is nowhere in the world where you can go swim with penguins one minute and then the next sit on some beautiful restaurant terrace in the wine regions."

It wasn't Boorman's first trip to South Africa. Following the popular TV show he filmed with acting buddy Ewan McGregor, Long Way Round, Boorman and McGregor took to the road for their second epic journey, titled Long Way Down, travelling from John O'Groats in Scotland to Cape Town in 84 days. This time round, Boorman got the chance to revisit South Africa and spend more time getting to know the place, and introducing the audience to some hidden treasures.

Speaking to Getaway magazine, Boorman says: "Ever since I first journeyed to South Africa, I have had a real affection for the country. This is one of the most beautiful places on earth – rich in gastronomy, activities and fantastic people."

Boorman made his way around the country on a BMW GS Adventure motorbike, his favoured mode of transport!

"I want people to see Africa in a different light," he says. Watching Charley Boorman's South African Adventure will certainly make you want to hop onto the next plane – or motorbike – to come and see it for yourself.

The next three episodes will air on January 16, 23, and 30 on Channel Five in the UK.